Art Surrey Exhibition – A Weekend to Remember
The Art Surrey Exhibition at Epsom Racecourse (3rd–5th October) was an unforgettable milestone for me and Golden Hue Studios. It was my first major exhibition, and what a weekend it turned out to be!
A Sparkling Start
The Private Viewing on Friday evening set the tone beautifully. To my delight, my stunning 24x30-inch Hummingbird acrylic painting framed and shimmering in colour sold to an online buyer who had spotted it earlier on Instagram. I was thrilled to see the power of sharing art online translate into such a special connection. I also sold a print of my first “Gorilla in the Jungle” painting, which felt like a fitting start to what became a truly nature-filled weekend.
I had some wonderful conversations, including interest from several visitors who loved the greens and golds in my hummingbird and were eager to see me explore more abstract work in that palette.
The Gorilla That Stole the Show
Throughout the exhibition, my large Gorilla Original 105 cm's x 85cm's statement piece drew so much love and attention. Watching people connect with his presence and energy was incredible.
Then, on Saturday evening, after travelling home and settling down for dinner with my husband, I checked my emails and there it was: a message from Paignton Zoo. I had previously reached out about a possible collaboration, and they’d written back to say they’d love to have a print of my Gorilla painting displayed in their Ape Centre. Even more excitingly, they suggested that after a few months, they could auction the artwork to raise funds for their conservation foundation.
After giving it some thought, I decided to gift them two paintings one to remain on display at the Ape Centre, and another to be auctioned for the fundraiser. I announced the news on Sunday morning at the exhibition, and it was such a joy to share the story with visitors who had admired the piece all weekend.
(The Large Gorilla Original is still available for sale, while the smaller piece will be heading to Paignton Zoo this week!)
A Triumphant Finale
Sunday brought even more to celebrate I sold four of my original sea abstract pieces to three wonderful new collectors. It was such an affirming moment to see my work resonate with so many people in different ways.
Reflecting on the Journey
All in all, Art Surrey was a huge success not just in sales, but in personal growth, connection, and inspiration. I’ve come away feeling deeply fulfilled and more excited than ever to continue creating pieces that celebrate the spirit of nature and the energy that connects us all.
Here’s to the next chapter of my artistic journey and to seeing where this story unfolds.
Gemma Jones
Golden Hue Studios